Real Talk about Writing

[mimmoore]

I have written about my small FYC/Corequisite writing course this semester and the challenges that we have faced (sustained silence and misconceptions about difficulty, for example).   I have wondered at times if gaps in age and experience are insurmountable obstacles to teaching effectiveness for me. Case in point: I introduced a discussion of image analysis with a cartoon drawing of Bill Gates holding a vaccine, but not a single student in the class that day knew who Bill Gates was.  It was a teachable moment, for sure, as we searched for information on Gates, vaccines, and protests.  Still, I doubted, yet again, what I was accomplishing.

The fact that three students from our already small class disappeared following Thanksgiving break only added to the frustration.  Most of the tough drafting work was complete: after Thanksgiving, students select, polish, and annotate pieces, and they craft a summative reflection to serve as an introduction to their portfolios.   I hoped the final two weeks of class would function as a workshop of sorts—open-ended space for students to collaborate and determine what they wanted to work on, getting feedback and help as needed.   But on our first day back, with a noticeably smaller group in attendance, the students drifted into isolated spaces and worked on their own. 

For the next class, I invited my senior writing fellows to visit the class for open-ended conferences.  The fellows had partnered with these students outside of class, but this was the first time I had invited them into the classroom. Each of them sat next to one of the first-year writers and had a few minutes for casual chatting.  Then I heard them dive in: “So tell me what you’re working on.” “Which assignment is giving you the most trouble?” “What’s going into your portfolio?” Their talk continued.  

The first-year writers began to respond, tentatively at first, and talk about their work—what they had done, what they wanted to do, what they were confused about.  In fact, these were all the things they were so often hesitant to say to me.

After several minutes of these paired conversations, I heard one of the fellows call out to another fellow sitting several feet away: 

“Hey, what’s that word you use when you are expecting something but you really have no reason to expect it?” 

“Like a false hope?”Photo by John Schnobrich via Unsplash

“Maybe.  Or ‘in vain?’”

“Uh… that isn’t it.  What about…?”

A few minutes passed.  The fellows were talking to each other again, but also pulled the first-year writers in:

“Does this sound odd to you?”

“Are you saying this?  I think it’s this word that’s tripping me up…”

“Hey Dr. Moore, what do you think about when you hear this word…?”

“Hey Dr. Moore, could you look at the title with us?”

Talk crossed back and forth across the room, from one pair to another.   Conversations expanded, then pairs returned to more focused work.

Once again this semester, learning happened in ways I did not anticipate.  My students were engaging in what Myhill and Newman (2016) call “high-quality classroom talk;” in other words, talk that is central to the development of linguistic and rhetorical control.   Students and fellows talked to each other without triangulating through me; I listened, affirmed, and supplied information as needed.   I watched and smiled.

I had forgotten how much I enjoy hearing “writer talk”—and I think my students enjoyed it, too.

[aloxuilen]

. Writing is a Craft that Requires Constant Practice and Dedication Writing is not an innate talent but a skill that improves with consistent effort. Regular practice helps in honing your ability to articulate thoughts clearly and creatively. Dedicate time daily to write, even if it’s just a journal entry.

2. Clarity and Conciseness are Key Elements of Effective Writing Effective writing communicates ideas without unnecessary complexity. Use straightforward language and avoid verbose sentences. Clarity ensures your message is easily understood, while conciseness keeps the reader engaged.

3. Good Writing Often Involves Multiple Drafts and Revisions The first draft is rarely perfect. Revising your work is crucial for refining ideas, improving structure, and correcting errors. Multiple drafts allow you to enhance your argument and ensure coherence and flow.

4. Reading Widely Can Improve Your Writing Skills by Exposing You to Different Styles and Techniques Reading a variety of genres and authors can provide new perspectives and writing techniques. This exposure helps you understand different narrative styles, enriches your vocabulary, and inspires creativity.

5. Understanding Your Audience is Crucial to Delivering a Compelling Message Knowing your audience guides the tone, style, and content of your writing. Tailoring your message to the audience’s interests and level of understanding makes your writing more relevant and impactful.

6. Proper Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling are Essential for Credibility Mistakes in grammar, fafsa punctuation, and spelling can undermine your credibility and distract the reader. Proofreading is essential to ensure your writing is polished and professional.

7. Constructive Feedback is Valuable for Improvement Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or writing groups. Constructive criticism provides insights into areas of improvement and helps you see your work from different perspectives.

8. Developing a Unique Voice Sets Your Writing Apart Your writing voice is your distinctive style. It’s shaped by your personality, experiences, and perspective. A unique voice makes your writing recognizable and memorable.

9. Effective Writing Often Incorporates Storytelling Techniques Storytelling can make your writing more engaging and relatable. Use narratives, anecdotes, and examples to illustrate your points and connect with the reader emotionally.

10. Time Management Skills Help in Meeting Deadlines Managing your time effectively ensures you meet deadlines without compromising on quality. Break down writing tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic goals.

11. Research and Fact-Checking are Crucial for Credibility Accurate information is the foundation of credible writing. Conduct thorough research and verify facts to build trust with your audience.

12. Financial Aid for Education, Such as FAFSA, Can Support Aspiring Writers Financial constraints shouldn’t hinder your pursuit of writing. Programs like FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) provide financial support for education, enabling you to focus on developing your writing skills without financial worries.

[LarkBegin]

It sounds like you're creating a powerful, student centered learning environment where authentic discussions and peer collaboration thrive. The shift from silence to engaged dialogue shows growth, even if gradual. Inviting writing fellows fostered open conversations and mutual learning, which is invaluable. Trust the process you're facilitating meaningful learning moments, even when outcomes feel unpredictable. Keep going! Lark from Profit Parrot.